Do you commute on the East Bank Esplanade? For the next several weeks trail users will be sharing the cantilevered metal walkway north of the Morrison Bridge while the adjacent concrete pathway undergoes investigation and repair. Be prepared to slow down, watch out for construction vehicles, and share a more congested space that also has a riding surface to which some cyclists may not be accustomed.
Portland Parks and Recreation issued the following press release on Friday after bringing together transportation planners, bike, and pedestrian advocates to examine the conditions.
Advisory: Small Section of Eastbank Esplanade Closed
While pedestrian and bicycle access through the Eastbank Esplanade will be maintained, a portion has been closed for safety reasons.
(Portland, OR) – Portland Parks & Recreation (PP&R) closed a 400′ section of the Eastbank Esplanade today for safety reasons. Over the past number of weeks a short section of the paved section of trail just north of the Morrison Bridge has experienced some sagging. In order to do further investigative work, and to protect the public’s safety, PP&R has closed off access to this small section of trail, which parallels the grated metal section of walkway that is cantilevered out over the Willamette River.
“We are very lucky that the section that needs to be closed has a perfectly safe alternative right next to it,” said Eileen Argentina, Services Manager for PP&R. The cantilevered section of grated metal walkway will remain open for all users during the time the parallel section of trail is closed. During the closure PP&R will investigate to determine the cause and potential solutions for the trail slumping, after which appropriate repairs will be made.
Trail users are encouraged to be mindful of construction vehicles and crews who will be present on the trail. Additionally, trail users should be cautious when using the metal grated walkway as all users will need to share this space. As changes occur, PP&R will keep the public informed about the length of closure and construction timing.
Riders on the Eastbank Esplande south of the current closure
